Comeback win satisfies Wenger

25 July 2012 06:16

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Arsene Wenger felt the opening match of Arsenal's tour was a "good workout" after watching his side come from behind to beat a Malaysia XI 2-1 at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.

Mohd Azmi Muslim had fired the hosts ahead with a fine 30-yard strike in first-half stoppage time. Wenger made the expected sweeping changes for the second half and, after missing several chances, the Gunners levelled with just four minutes left through 19-year-old German midfielder Thomas Eisfeld, then snatched victory when Benik Afobe's shot was deflected in.

"We played two sides and I felt both did well. The first half was played at a high pace and overall it was a good workout for us against a good Malaysian team," Wenger told a post-match press conference, published on www.arsenal.com.

"Every year they play faster, quicker and stronger. We had to be patient to win the game, but the result was less important than the workout.

"We got the quality of the game we wanted and that is very positive, and we got through it without any injuries."

Arsenal now head to Beijing, where they will play Barclays Premier League champions Manchester City in the Bird's Nest Stadium on Friday. Wenger admits there is still "some work to do" as pre-season steps up a gear.

He added: "Overall we still have some tactical work to do and some physical work, but don't forget that some players have only had two or three days training. Some others have only had a maximum of seven or eight so physically we are far from what we can produce."

Wantaway captain Robin van Persie is one of several first-team players left to work on pre-season training back in England.

Arsenal have been linked with a Â£16million coup for Spain winger Santi Cazorla.

However, when pressed if any more new signings were imminent, Wenger said: "No [we are not close]. Maybe we will sign a Malaysian player?"